how to waterproof a crawlspace?

Question

we have a 4 ft. crawl space, need to know how to insulate and how to keep dry. How do you maintain a crawlspace to get a life time from it

Answer 1

Hello There!

I am sure that somebody on this site can answer you much better than I can. But I am in the process of buying a house that is having the exact same thing done within the next few days.

As the inspecting engineer explained to me, you have to cover the dirt or the floor under the house with a plastic barrier that is at least 5 mil thick. And this must be done to prevent moisture build up that will attrack termites.

I will get back to you if I find out anymore about this.

Love,
Connie

Answer 2

Besides having plastic covering the bottom of the space, you need some vents to allow airflow through the space. I open mine during the warm weather and close them for the winter. If you decide to insulat the floor joists, make sure the vapor barrier is up next to the floor.